Chapter 187

The golden glow of fairy lights reflected in the glass windows, casting a warm ambiance over the festivities. The air was thick with laughter, music, and the scent of freshly brewed chai, blending with the crisp mountain air. Inside their room, Ayleen stood in front of the vanity mirror, fingers fumbling with the knot at the back of her blouse. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t tie it properly.

A frustrated sigh escaped her lips as she struggled, her movements growing more restless. Her reflection showed her swollen eyes, despite the concealer she had applied. The evidence of last night’s tears still lingered, a silent confession of the weight pressing down on her chest.

Behind her, Murat sat on the edge of the bed, tying his shoe laces, his focus seemingly elsewhere. But he wasn’t oblivious to her struggle. His gaze lifted, watching her through the mirror. For a moment, something flickered in his expression, her swollen eyes making him restless.

Without a